The First Noel
Trad. Arr. W. Jackson Lyrics

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The first Noel the angels did say
Was to certain poor shepherds
In fields as they lay,
In fields where they,
Laying their sheep
On a cold winter's night
That was so deep.
Noel Noel Noel Noel!

Born is the King of Israel!

They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the East beyond them far,
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night.
Noel Noel Noel Noel!
Born is the King of Israel!

And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from country far,
To seek for a King was their intent
And to follow the star
Wherever it went.

Noel Noel Noel Noel!
Born is the King of Israel!

Overall Meaning

The song "The First Noel" tells the story of the angels proclaiming the birth of Jesus Christ to a group of shepherds in the fields. The word "Noel" in the lyrics serves as a shout of joy and celebration, conveying the good news of Christ's arrival. The shepherds, who were considered lowly in society, are the first to hear of the Messiah's birth, emphasizing that Jesus came for all people, regardless of their social status. The lyrics also mention the star that appeared in the East and led the wise men to Bethlehem. These wise men, or Magi, were learned scholars who recognized the significance of the star and were determined to seek out the newborn King. The story of Jesus' birth is often retold during Christmas season, and The First Noel is a classic Christmas carol that has become a tradition of the season. The lyrics are simple and direct, conveying the joy of Christmas and the significance of Christ's birth.

Line by Line Meaning

The first Noel the angels did say
The angels proclaimed the first news of Jesus' birth

Was to certain poor shepherds
The angels announced it to humble shepherds

In fields as they lay,
As the shepherds rested in their fields,

In fields where they,
Where they were minding their sheep

Laying their sheep
Watching over their flocks

On a cold winter's night
On a winter night, when the air was chilly

That was so deep.
When the darkness seemed unending

Noel Noel Noel Noel!
Noel Noel Noel Noel! (a joyous phrase)

Born is the King of Israel!
For the King of Israel has been born

They looked up and saw a star
The shepherds gazed upon a star

Shining in the East beyond them far,
Radiant in the East, far beyond them